Quick Take

Most suicides don't realize the headaches they cause....Two a.m. in the bitter cold of winter: the young Hispanic man's body was found in a tenement basement. The rope around his neck suggested a clear case of suicide -- until the autopsy revealed he'd overdosed on heroin. He was a pusher, and now a thousand questions pressed down on the detectives of the 87th Precinct: Who set up the phony hanging? Whose fingerprints were on the syringe found at the scene? Who was making threatening phone calls, attempting to implicate Lieutenant Byrnes' teenage son? Somebody was pushing the 87th Precinct hard, and Detective Steve Carella and Lieutenant Pete Byrnes have to push back harder -- before a frightening and deadly chain tightens its grip.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Pusher (87th Precinct, #3)

Introduction

"The Pusher" is the third book in Ed McBain's popular 87th Precinct series. Set in a fictional US city, the novel follows the detectives of the 87th Precinct as they investigate a series of murders linked to drug dealing. The story is known for its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and atmospheric descriptions of the city. In this article, we will delve into the book's author, analyze readers' views, and summarize the reasons for both recommending and not recommending this book.

About Ed McBain

Ed McBain, also known as Evan Hunter, is the pen name of American author and screenwriter Salvatore Albert Lombino (1926-2005). He began his writing career under the name Evan Hunter but later adopted the pen name Ed McBain for his crime fiction. McBain was a prolific writer, with over 50 books to his name. He is best known for his 87th Precinct series, which has been praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and its engaging characters.

Analysis of Views

Gripping Plot: Readers praise "The Pusher" for its compelling plot, which keeps them engaged from start to finish. The investigation into the drug-related murders and the twists and turns throughout the story keep readers on the edge of their seats.
Well-Developed Characters: One of the strengths of the book is its well-rounded and believable characters. The detectives of the 87th Precinct, particularly Steve Carella and Lieutenant Pete Byrnes, are portrayed with depth and complexity, making them relatable and engaging to readers.
Atmospheric Descriptions: McBain's descriptions of the city and its inhabitants add depth and authenticity to the story. Readers appreciate his ability to evoke a sense of place and create a vivid picture of the setting.
Engaging Writing Style: Many readers praise McBain's writing style, which is described as evocative, engaging, and enjoyable to read. His ability to convey emotion and create a sense of tension in his writing is highly appreciated.
Historical Significance: Some readers appreciate "The Pusher" as a groundbreaking work in the crime fiction genre. They see it as a significant contribution to the development of police procedurals and recognize its influence on subsequent writers in the genre.

Reasons for Recommendation

Compelling Plot: The gripping plot and fast-paced nature of "The Pusher" make it an enjoyable read for many readers. The investigation into the drug-related murders keeps them engaged and invested in the outcome.
Well-Developed Characters: The well-rounded characters in the book, particularly Steve Carella and Lieutenant Pete Byrnes, resonate with readers. Their personal struggles and relationships add depth to the story and make them relatable characters.
Atmospheric Descriptions: McBain's descriptive writing adds depth and authenticity to the story, creating a vivid picture of the city and its inhabitants. Readers appreciate his ability to evoke a sense of place and immerse them in the setting.
Engaging Writing Style: The engaging writing style of Ed McBain makes "The Pusher" an enjoyable read for many readers. His ability to convey emotion and create tension in his writing is highly praised.
Historical Significance: For some readers, "The Pusher" holds historical significance as a groundbreaking work in the crime fiction genre. Its influence on subsequent writers and its contribution to the development of police procedurals make it a recommended read for fans of the genre.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Depth: Some readers find that "The Pusher" lacks depth in its crimes or investigations. They feel that the story could have been more complex or had more depth to keep them fully engaged throughout the book.
Predictable Twists: A few readers feel that some of the twists in the story are predictable or clichéd. They find that certain elements of the plot are easily guessed, which takes away from their overall enjoyment of the book.
Limited Character Development: A few readers feel that certain characters in "The Pusher" are underdeveloped or lack depth compared to other books in the series. They wish for more character development or exploration to make them more relatable and engaging to readers.

Conclusion

"The Pusher" by Ed McBain is a highly regarded book in the 87th Precinct series, known for its compelling plot, well-developed characters, atmospheric descriptions, and engaging writing style. Readers appreciate its historical significance as a groundbreaking work in the crime fiction genre and find it enjoyable to read from start to finish. However, some readers feel that it lacks depth in its crimes or investigations, has predictable twists, or underdeveloped characters compared to other books in the series. Overall, "The Pusher" is recommended for fans of police procedurals, crime fiction, and those looking for a gripping mystery with well-rounded characters and an immersive setting.